Videos on Chen style taijiquan

If you happen to hit this site because you have become interested in learning a martial art and wonder if taijiquan
qualifies, you may wish to get a feeling for what taijiquan martial power is supposed to "look like" by turning to a
movie. Since there are very few movies featuring taijiquan, I have added three movies at the end of the list.
Otherwise, with the exception of one competition video and some historical video tapes, all of the videos on this
page are Chen style, and most are meant for instruction purposes.

Please bear in mind that there is no way of actually learning taijiquan from
videos. You should always look for a qualified instructor. Videos, however,
may be a supplement to your training, and should also be very interesting
if you are not able to attend seminars or shows to watch the masters and grandmasters
perform. (I find the comments of
T'ai Chi Magazine
quite reasonable. Make sure to obtain videos of masters or very good students,
though, and not of mediocre practitioners. Otherwise, there is a risk that you will
emulate half-baken moves and postures that do not fulfill the required standards.)

Are you looking for a video product which contains all of the Chen style routines? One which may almost qualify is the
double-DVD set by Chen Xiaowang called Quanxie Xinshang (Admire
Boxing and Weapons) because it
covers quite some ground: The first DVD contains the Old Frame's First Routine (18 min.), the 38 Form (10 min.),
Double Sabre (4 min., incl. slow-motion replay), and the 19 Form (4 min.). The second DVD contains the New Frame's
First Routine (19 min.), Single Sabre (3 min., incl. slow-motion replay), the New Frame's Second (Pao Chui) Routine
(6 min.), Single Sword (5 min., incl. slow-motion replay), and Taiji Spear (6 min., incl. slow-motion replay). Each
routine is briefly introduced as to its unique features by professional speakers in Chinese language, with Chinese and
English subtitles. Both DVDs contain an identical introduction to Chen style taijiquan (4 min.) and to Chen Xiaowang
(5 min.). The quality is excellent. However, this is not an instruction video. Changing camera angles, cuts, and an
occasional zooming is likely to confuse you if you are a beginner, and you should better acquire an instruction video
if you wish to use it to supplement your practice. There's no accounting for taste, but the video does correspond to
current Chinese chic: All sorts of backgrounds (waterfalls, sunsets, grasslands, snowy mountains, ...you name it)
are matted in interchangeably and continuously changing during all performances, except for Taiji Spear. (Westerners,
unless of the esoteric or psychedelic sort, might be led to believe this was produced as a background video for a
discotheque if it weren't for the soft guzheng [Chinese zither] music background.) The ISRC is
CN-E22-07-315-00/V.G8(3/4), the publisher is Qilu Audio and Video Publishing House.
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113

zh

DVD

2007

Supplement your practice with a set of four DVDs of grand master Chen Xiaowang that demonstrate the first routine of
the old frame and which is probably one of the most comprehensive videos you can get on this routine.
Chen Shi Lao Jia contains an introduction on taijiquan and Chen
Xiaowang (8 min.), a summary of features of the first routine (2 min.) and a complete middle stance demonstration in
front view, recorded with moving cameras and containing cuts and changes of perspective as well as changing background
mattes (18 min.). In what follows, the routine is segmented into 4 sections which are each presented acording to the
following pattern: A) Overview of the movements of the section, B) complete demonstration of the section, C)
demonstration of each movement of the section (i. presentation of the movement, ii. explanation of the movement, iii.
presentation of the movement). During the explanation of the movement, the presentation is halted (still) where
appropriate in order to ensure that the spoken text (and the Chinese and English subtitles) match the state of the
presentation (i.e. so the presentation does not move on while the last sub-movement is still being explained).
During the presentation of the movements, the background mattes do not change. However, if you are a beginner, you
should make sure you know your bearings (as conveyed by your instructor) because moving cameras and changing angles
mean that you cannot easily deduce your own bearing based on the position of the camera (as on many other
instructional videos where the camera basically remains in the same place throughout the presentation).The set
closes with a repetition of the complete demonstration of the routine and a 15 min. presentation of the different
levels of push hand training and selected applications. The ISRC is CN-E22-07-317-00/V.G8(1-4), the publisher is Qilu
Audio and Video Publishing House. This set is a part of a Chen Xiaowang DVD series called Ancestral Chen-Style
Taijiquan.
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215

zh, en

DVD

2007

Also in the series on Ancestral Chen-Style Taijiquan, you will find a set on the single sword routine, i.e.
Dan Jian. It also contains the introduction on taijiquan and Chen
Xiaowang (8 min.). Then there is a summary of the origins and the characteristics of this routine (2 min.) and a
forceful complete demonstration by the Grandmaster in front view (2 min.), again recorded with moving cameras and
containing cuts and changes of perspective. On the normal speed presentation background mattes are changing. This is
not the case for the slow presentation (3 min.), though. This routine is segmented into 6 sections. These are presented
acording to the same pattern as for lao jia yi lu above. During the movement explanation parts, there are a
few additional repetitions (unmatted) as required, though. Footwork is sometimes not visible when cameras close in, and
occasionally the hands are not visible because the presentation is front view only. What is more disturbing, though, is
that the magic of the chroma key cannot cope with the swiftness (and presumably light reflections) of the sword. I.e.
the sword often disappears against the matted background. This is somewhat compensated for by adding unmatted pictures
under each movement explanation. But it still means that you cannot see the sword on many occasions during the matted
parts which are dominating the style. Also, the editors appear to sometimes have had difficulties in producing good
stills, many of which are, in fact, slightly blurred and not always perfectly timed. This does not make this a bad
video because the oral/ subtitled explanations of the movements and sub-movements are detailed and precise. The set
closes with a repetition of the complete demonstration of the routine (normal and slow speeds), and there is a
presentation of the different levels of push hand training and selected applications (15 min.). The publisher is Qilu
Audio and Video Publishing House, and the ISRC is CN-E22-07-315-00/V.G8(1-2).
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107

zh, en

DVD

2004

One of the best Chen style instructional videos I have ever watched is a VCD with 18th generation master Feng Zhiqiang,
a renowned indoor student of Chen Fake and creator of the hunyuan style, on "The Second Set of Chen-Style
Taijiquan", or Chen Shi Taijiquan Er Lu. For one, this VCD uses a
professional speaker which is both more pleasant to the ear and better articulated (audible) than when you have the
taijiquan professional speak. Secondly, it is a good mix of routine presentation and applications (which come too
short on many video products that display routines). There is a short introduction with English subtitles on the
specifics of the second routine (4 min.). This is followed by a list of the movements of the routine in Chinese and
in English (3.5 min.) and a presentation of the routine by Feng Zhiqiang (high stance, front view) that is accompanied
by Chinese music (9.5 min.). Then there is one hour of going thru the routine, movement-by-movement with mainly front
and back views, and slow motions, freezed frames and repetitions as useful. The explanations for each movement are made
in spoken Chinese while the presentation is made (and without English subtitles). The following 18 min. present the
viewer with defense and attack applications of a selected 14 movements of the routine with Feng Zhiqiang flinging,
toppling, striking a young student for illustration, including sufficient slow-motion replays that you need not stop
and repeat any views. The VCD closes with a back view high stance presentation (so you can study by "following" Feng;
9 min.). This VCD's IRSC is CN-C02-98-0001-0/V.G8, and it has been produced by Beijing Culture Arts Audiovisual
Publishers.
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106

zh

VCD

2004

Chen Erhu is, apparently, a natural of Chenjiagou,
a student of Wang Xi'an, and is running a training center in Wen County. He has produced videos which may be
interesting if you are looking for practical examples of martial application of Chen style. One of these is called
Chen Shi Taiji Sanshou Yu Qinna, Zhi Di Juezhao 1
(Chen Style Taji Sparring and Capture, Overwhelming Skills 1, as per the official English title). It
provides a short introduction on taijiquan and the instructor (5 min.) and then presents 20 martial applications in
succession. Each appication is first demonstrated, then explained, and then repeated each twice in front, side and
back views. That takes roughly 3 min. per application. The applications themselves are given proper names while the
link between the application and specific movements in the routines go unexplained. (I am not sure to which extent
this is in line with Chen style practice.) In fact, you need to avoid the trap of thinking in terms of these
applications ("When A strikes, with his right fist, towards B's head with his right leg up front...") in order to make
the most of your Chen style training. But it may be interesting to watch for illustration purposes, or to present to
people who are not convinced taijiquan has any martial application. (On the other hand, why should you bother with
ignorants? You are practicing for your own benefit and need not entertain others.) The DVD has been produced by
the People's Sports Video Publishing House and is being distributed by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communications, IRSC is CN-M23-04-0119-0/V.G8.
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51

zh, en

DVD

20??

Videos by Zhu Tiancai, one of the four Jinggangs or highest-level standard bearers are not easily obtained. But the
ubiquity of digital recording equipment has also increased the availability of performances by this Chen-style
grandmaster. One of them ist called Chen Shi Taijiquan Taiji Dan Dao
(Chen-Style Taijiquan Single Broadsword),
and is one in a series of DVDs called Chen Style Taijiquan Serials (sic), of which it is No.11. The series is part of a
larger effort to preserve treasures of Chinese wushu just as some of the other videos described on this webpage.
The video contains a short introduction to the series by a professor of wushu studies (1.5 min., with English subtitles),
a short intro to Chen Style taijiquan (2.5 min. only Chinese) and one about Zhu Tiancai (3.5 min. with English subtitles),
followed by a presentation of the complete routine (front view). The routine then is split into two sections.
Each section is presented by giving an overview of the names of the postures of the section, followed by a complete
presentation of the section, and then a posture-by-posture explanation of the section (front view with occasional back
views, slows, stills, as well as focuses on foot work and hands where useful) in Chinese with English subtitles. This
is followed by another complete presentation of the routine in front and back ("practice with me") views. The video
is a professional instruction video, properly edited and using qualified speakers (with excellent pronounciation).
The DVD has been examined and approved by the China Associaton of Wushu and is
being distributed by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communications, IRSC is CN-M23-08-314-00/V.G8, ISBN is
978-7-88721-736-3.
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52

zh, en

DVD

2003

Here is a nice VCD for beginning your studies of the first routine of the old frame of Chen style: Presented by
19th generation master Chen Xiaoxing, Chen Shi Taijiquan Lao Jia Yi Lu
divides the long routine into sections disgestible for beginners. Following a complete demonstration of the routine
in low stance front view (13 min.), 16 sections are presented in front view and low stance. Each section is repeated
twice, then once with Chinese counts of the subsections of the individual movements, once with English counts, and then
twice again. (For instruction, every movement can be disected into "submovements", and these are usually assigned
numbers, e.g. 1-8 for "Bhudda's Warrior Attendant Pounds the Mortar", 1-4 for "Six Sealings Four Closings", 1-5 for
"Single Whip". On this VCD, number counts signal the
transition from one "submovement" to the next.) The 6 repetitions of each section are quite useful for training
purposes because you need not constantly push the buttons of your control for repeating the section. For beginners
the fact that the same perspective is maintained throughout is also less confusing than if you need to rethink from
which angle you are looking all the time. Regarding those intervals where the front view conceals the position of the
hands, a 90 degree angle view is inserted in a small window so you do not miss anyhting important. IRSC is
CN-F42-03-0034-0/V.G, ISBN is 7-88059-355-7. The VCD is produced by Henan Electronic Audio-Video Publishing House.
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127

zh, en

VCD

2002

As to weapons, one of the most demanding routines is the long handled broadsword
called Chunqiu Da Dao, i.e. (spring and autumn) large broadsword,
or qinglong yanyue dao, i.e. Qinglong crescent moon broadsword. Grandmaster Chen
Zhenglei has recorded the routine for those who have reached the level, and strive
to practice with a 3 kg training or 10 kg real helbard of this type. Following an
intoduction on the history of Chen taijiquan and Chen Zhenglei (6.5 min.), and a
complete view (3 min.) plus general explanations (3 min.), the routine is being
introduced in 5 sections (10 min, 10 min., 8.5 min., 10 min., 14 min.). Each section
is once fully displayed before and once after the single movements. The single
movements are presented some 5 times each, including explanations and slow motion.
The VCD closes with a final view of the whole routine (3 min.). All demonstrations
are front view presentations. The VCD is part of a collection on Chinese martial
arts produced by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communication Co. Ltd.
The ISRC is CN-M23-02-0010-0/V.G8.
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71

zh

VCD

2002

Very long weapons are not very practical (unless you need to fight against walled cities
or people on horseback or carriages). But they can be very useful for developing martial
power if used correctly during training. Chen style practice may resort to long staffs,
and Chen Zhenglei has produced a video on their usage called
Taiji Shisan Gan
(Taiji Thirteen Staff routine). There is an intoduction on the history of Chen taijiquan and
Chen Zhenglei (6.5 min.), one complete view (1.5 min.) and general introduction (2.5 min.).
The routine is divided into 3 sections which are presented completely first, and then in
(repeated) single movements; and followed by explanations of main points of practice (5 min,
4 min., 4.5 min.). In closing, there are two more repetitions of the routine (3.5 min.).
Finally, there is a very powerful presentation of xin jia yi lu by Chen Zhenglei (14 min.).
The VCD is part of a collection on Chinese martial arts produced by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communication Co. Ltd. The
ISRC is CN-M23-02-0011-0/V.G8.
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42

zh

VCD

2002

If you have not yet decided what style suits you best or wish to compare the different styles of taijiquan with each
other, a set of, as understand, 4 VCDs with recordings of the presentations made by representatives of different
styles at the China Zhuhai International Taijiquan Exchange Meeting may be a good choice for you. Under the motto
"Famous Experts Performance Exhibition - Famous Experts Coaching" Zhongguo Zhuhai Guoji Taijiquan Jiaoliu
Dahui - Taiji Mingjia Biaoyan provides you with a total of 35 performances in competition duration (i.e.
mostly somewhere around 5-6 min. length). The performers are classified according to the following (exhibition)
categories: Chen style, Wu (Jianquan) style, Wu (Yuxiang) style, Popular Wushu, State Routine, Hong Kong, Macau,
Yang style, Wudang, Sun style, and Zhaobao. Chen style performers, all found on the first of the 4 VCDs, are Chen
Zhenglei (5 min.), Wang Xi'an (6 min.), Ma Hong (9 min.), Zhang Zhijun (4 min.); and arguably also Wang Erping (3 min.)
and Wu Dong (3 min.) under the Chinese State Routine, as well as Li Wenkuan (4 min.) from Macau. The recordings are
professional camera recordings from an indoor gymnasium with cuts (switching cameras) and usually keep the performers
face visible (i.e. you do not see the back of the performers). It is part of the martial arts collection produced by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communication Co. Ltd. The recording code is
CN-G08-02-0309-0/V.G8, ISBN is 7-88577-333-7. There is no spoken text or any sound from the performance itself, only
soft background music.
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232

zh

VCD

1998

The internalization of taijiquan principles is probably best developed by
reeling silk exercises. Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang has produced tapes
which display such exercises. Chan Si Gong - Internal Spiral Energy,
Part 1 introduces the practicioner to a first set of exercises. There is a
short 4 min. introduction on the history of taijiquan, followed by general explanations of
purpose and usage of chan si gong exercises by Chen Xiaowang (8 min.). Then the
first set is demonstrated once for a first view (12 min., one part in front view, another
in side view), and then slowly (side view) with detailed explanations of hand positions,
flow of qi, shift of weight, etc. (28 min.). The slow part is quite suitable for following.
If you take a cinematographic point of view concerning your tapes, you will not like the
tape for a number of reasons. Personally, I am very impressed with Chen Xiaowang's
didactic skill in a language (English) he is not fully proficient in, and I would not want
to miss it for its valuable content. It may be obtained from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman
Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114 Australia, and, I presume, his students, e.g.
WCTAG.
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58

en

VHS

1998

The second silk reeling exercise tape of Chen Xiaowang, Chan Si
Gong - Internal Spiral Energy, Part 2 displays set no.2 and contains three
demonstrations: A first view of the second set (11 min., front view), a view with
detailed explanations of hand positions, flow of qi, shift of weight, etc. (17 min., mainly
front view) which is suitable for following, and a view of the first and second sets of
exercise together (22 min.). This is followed by a short section about Chen Xiaowang
(3 min.). Quality of the takes is better than for Part 1.
Available from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114 Australia,
and, I presume, his students, e.g. WCTAG.
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59

en

VHS

1998

The first you should normally learn, when you follow the traditional route
of acquiring Chen taijiquan skills, is the old frame's first routine.
Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang is one of the four major standard bearers of the style
and therefore is one of the four "ultimate" teachers to follow. His Chen
Style Taijiquan Laojia - Old Frame Part 1 is the first tape in a three-tape
series which introduces the routine step by step. The first tape begins with an
introduction to Chen Xiaowang's video tape series (3 min.), an introduction to Chen
style taijiquan and to Chen Xiaowang (4 min.), and two presentations of the whole
routine: a) in middle stance front view (12 min., with some general spoken information
in the background) and b) middle-low stance back view (10 min., with background
music). Then, there is a written (Chinese characters, Chinese pinyin, English) and
oral presentation of the names of the different movements of the first part, followed
by a complete presentation of this part in front view (3 min.). The rest of the tape
presents movements 1-18 (= Part 1) of the routine (29 min.). Each movement is
demonstrated (usually in succession with 1-5 other movements) from 4 different horizontal
angles. These demonstrations are repeated one after another on the tape so you do
not need to constantly wind backward all the time if you want to study a specific sequence.
Also, swift movements (as jumps, kicks, fajing) are slowed down for a better view.
Quality is good. The tape may be obtained from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman
Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114 Australia, and, I presume, his students, e.g.
WCTAG.
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62

en

VHS

1998

Chen Xiaowang's Chen Style Taijiquan Laojia - Old Frame Part 2
is the second tape in the three-tape series which introduces this routine step by step.
The first tape begins with an introduction to Chen Xiaowang (5 min.), followed by
a written (Chinese characters, Chinese pinyin, English) and oral presentation of the
names of the different movements of the second part. Thereafter, movements 19-38
(= Part 2) of the routine are being presented (30 min.). As on the first tape of the
series, each movement or sequence is demonstrated from 4 different horizontal
angles repeated one after another and quick movements are slowed down for better view.
The tape closes with a slow presentation of the complete routine in middle-high stance
front view (17 min., background music). Quality is good. The tape may be obtained
from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114 Australia, and,
I presume, his students, e.g. WCTAG.
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54

en

VHS

1998

As opposed to what you may think, Chen Xiaowang's Chen Style Taijiquan
Laojia - Old Frame Part 3 video tape not only includes the third, but also
the fourth and last part of the routine. This third tape of the series begins with
a written (Chinese characters, Chinese pinyin, English) and oral presentation of the
names of the different movements of the third part of the routine. Then, movements
39-55 (= Part 3) are being presented (21 min.) followed by a complete demonstration
of the third part (3 min.). Finally, you get the written and oral presentation of the
names of the different movements of the fourth part of the routine, followed by the
demonstrations of movements 56-75 (= Part 4, 18 min.), followed by a complete
demonstration of the fourth part (4 min.). As on the first and second tapes of the
series, each movement or sequence is demonstrated from 4 different horizontal
angles repeated one after another and quick movements are slowed down for better view.
Quality is good. The tape may be obtained from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman
Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114 Australia, and, I presume, his students, e.g.
WCTAG.
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53

en

VHS

1998

Chen Style Taijiquan - 19 Movement Short Form
has been produced by Chen Xiaowang, and contains exactly what the title says,
plus an introduction of about 5 min. on the history of taijiquan and on
Chen Xiaowang, and some 4 min. at the end about Chen Xiaowang's work in disseminating
Chen style taijiquan. Demonstration work is very complete, i.e. with front,
back, and both side views, and high, middle and low stances. With its nice introduction
on the art itself, and the 19 Form performed, it seems a perfect "beginner's
kit". Quality is good. You may obtain the tape from Chen Xiaowang, 18 Sluman
Street, West Ryde, NSW 2114, Australia, and certainly from a number of his
students.
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58

en, (zh)

VHS

1997

If you have mastered the first routine and are beginning to study
the second one, or "cannon fist", you may want to turn to another fine tape
by Master Ren Guangyi to supplement your studies. His Lao Jia Er Lu
contains a 6 minute introductory note while the
routine is being presented once in real-time and then in slow motion (front view,
3.5 min/ 6.5 min.); a complete presentation of the routine (front, left, right view;
28 min.) with names of each movement displayed in Chinese, pinyin
transcription, and English, plus a short note on the shift in weight; and finally
a repetition of the first real-time and slow motion front views.
Quality is good and the different views of the movements are fluently
blended with one another. The tape may be obtained from
Ren Guangyi,
66 N. Middletown Rd., B2, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA.
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55

en, zh sub

VHS

1997

Tai Chi Chuan - Vollendete Kampfkunst aus China
has been produced by Radio Free Berlin (SFB), and directed by Ludger Pfanz.
It is a nice introductory film to taijiquan that explains the context in which it
has grown and continues to exist. Reference is made to current practice at
Chenjiagou, shaolinquan, application in Chinese opera, and daily usage. It
includes interviews with and demonstrations by Chen Xiaowang, Chen Guizhen,
Shen Xijing, Jan Silberstorff, and Ren Farong of the daoist temple at Louguantai.
Quality is very good. There is
a German description of the making of the film
on the webpages of WCTAG. It may be ordered at
WCTAG,
Rendsburgerstrasse 14, D-20359 Hamburg, Germany.
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44

de

VHS

1997

Tai Ji Quan - Chen Style - Handform has been produced
by WCTAG. Jan Silberstorff demonstrates lao jia
yi lu. There is a front view and a back view (each about 34 min. long), 21
min. depicting the different particular movements, and a short intro. If you
are not a total beginner, you do not need to understand German to make use of
this tape since there is no talking. The names of the movements come in German
subtitles while being performed in the section depicting the different movements
(which also has slow motion replays of fajing movements). Quality is good.
To be ordered at
WCTAG,
Rendsburgerstrasse 14, D-20359 Hamburg, Germany.
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97

de sub

VHS

1997?

Taiji and Shaolin Quan - The Fighting Arts of Henan
Province actually assembles 3 seperate sequences on Henan province
and its culture (19 min.), the Shaolin temple and its traditional boxing system
(11 min.), and on Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang and training scenes from Chenjiagou
(11 min.). The latter sequence is worthwhile because it shows powerful Chen
Xiaowang in motion (both routine demonstration and tui shou). Quality is medium.
It can be ordered with WCTAG,
Rendsburgerstrasse 14, D-20359 Hamburg, Germany.
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40

en

VHS

1996

There is a demonstration of The Chen Style Tai Chi Sword
and Five Methods of Push Hands on a tape by Master Ren Guangyi.
First, you are introduced to the single straight sword form in Chinese and
English while it is being presented once (front view), then to the hand
forms for the sword, and finally the whole form is presented movement by
movement (front, left and right side views, 29 min.). The complete front
view is presented once more, followed by a 27 min. presentation of push
hands (single hand, curving flowers, stationary stance, moving stance, big
pull, and flower pattern stance). There are English commentaries to each
movement. Jose Figueroa assists Ren Guangyi in the push hand
demonstrations. Quality is very good. Buy the tape from
Ren Guangyi,
66 Middletown Road, Apt. B2, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA.
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60

en

VHS

1996

Chen Taijiquan Broadsword and 5 Levels of Push Hands
Demonstration is similar to the straight sword tape below. The
video first gives a short Chinese and English introduction while the form
is presented twice in front view (normal and slow speed), and then proceeds
with the demonstation of each movement (14 min., front and two side views).
The front view is repeated in fast and slow speed, and then there are 24
min. of push hand demonstrations. Here, Stephan Berwick assists Ren
Guangyi. Of the total running time some 7 min. belong to the trailer,
quality is very good. The tape may be obtained from
Ren Guangyi,
66 Middletown Road, Apt. B2, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA.
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Chen Zhenglei has produced a video recording called
Yang Sheng Gong
(Health Preserving Skills) which provides you with a good overview of the different
exercises used in the Chen style system for warming and loosening up the body,
building inner strength, and training the application of taiji principles in your
movements. Following an introduction of ca. 2 min., there are four sections:
(I) relaxation (14 min., 11 exercises), (II) reeling silk skills (10 min., 5
exercises), (III) development of inner strength (26 min., 6 exercises including
standing post), and (IV) the 18 Form (4.5 min., front view). Each section contains
explanatory notes by Chen Zhenglei. A DVD with English translation is available as well, i.e. combined with
Xie Taolu Xinshang (see below) on a single DVD. The recording is part of a collection on Chinese martial
arts produced by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communication Co. Ltd.
The ISRC is CN-M23-96-306-00/V.G8.
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57

zh

VCD

1996

Another production by Chen Zhenglei is
Xie Taolu Xinshang (Enjoy
Weapons and Routines). It provides a front view demonstration of five different routines.
As the title suggests, it is meant more for appreciation of masterful performance
than for instruction since there is no explanation or repetition of sequences as
one would expect in instructional tapes. Durations are as follows: (I) lao jia yi
lu (14 min.), (II) lao jia er lu (5 min.), (III) single sword (4 min.), (IV) single sabre (1 min.), (V) 18 Form
(4 min.), and (VI) push hands (15 min.).
There is also a DVD, i.e. jointly with Yang Sheng Gong (see above) on a
single disk (with a total duration of 103 min.), which provides
English translation and subtitles. Chinese subtitles are available in both traditional and simplified
characters. This recording is part of a collection on Chinese martial arts produced by
Guangzhou Beauty Culture Communication Co. Ltd.
The ISRC is CN-M23-96-307-00/V.G8.
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46

zh

VCD

1995

Master Ren Guangyi demonstrates 38 Form Applications
on a tape produced with ESPY-TV. The video first shows the 38 Form created
by Chen Xiaowang (front view, 8 min.) - accompanied by an instructive
introductory text on Chen taijiquan, and then proceeds with usually one (and
sometimes more) self-defense application per movement. There are views from
different sides and with different speeds. Stephan Berwick assists Ren Guangyi
in the demonstrations. Quality is very good.
The tape may be obtained from Ren Guangyi,
66 Middletown Road, Apt. B2, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA.
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25

en, zh?

VHS

1995

Master Ren Guangyi has demonstrated Lao Jia Yi Lu
in an instructional video tape. First, following
a short introduction, the routine is presented completely (front view, low
stance; 10 min.). Then each of the 75 movements is presented from three
sides (front, left, right; 35 min.), and names are displayed in Chinese, pinyin
transcription, and English. In the end, the whole routine is repeated once more.
Quality is good; the different views of the movements are fluently
blended with one another, i.e. the making is more professional than other
instructional videos I have seen. It may be obtained from
Ren Guangyi,
66 N. Middletown Rd., B2, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA.
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59

en, zh

VHS

1994

If you are looking for the optimal taijiquan teachers, Ma Hong, one of Chen
Zhaokui's indoor students, is bound to be among them. Chen Style Tai Chi Form 1 Part 1
("Chenshi Taijiquan Di Yi Lu") is a real course to follow.
Following a short general introduction (2 min.), Ma Hong presents the complete
new style routine in front view first (11 min., Chinese music background) before he
goes into the details with an assistant. While you see Ma Hong's front, the assistant
provides the back view at the same time. Thus, you have the benefit of seeing both
sides simultaneously which is sometimes difficult when you are following in a class
and there are no mirrors in front of the teacher. Following the presentation of each
single movement, there is repetition and discussion, and Ma Hong also corrects the
position of the assistant for clarity. Movements presented before, are skipped later
in the tape. Part 1 ends with movement no.32: Gao tan ma. Quality is good. It is
possible to order the tape with Master Xu Guoming (George Xu), 4309 Lincoln Way,
San Francisco, CA 94122, USA.
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90

zh

VHS

1994

The second part of the first routine of the new style comes on a tape labeled
Chen Style Tai Chi Form 1 Part 2 (second part of "Chenshi Taijiquan
Di Yi Lu"). The structure is the same as on the recording of part 1 with Ma Hong and
one assistant presenting indoors. It begins with movement no.33 (You ca jiao - Rub
the Right Foot) and takes you all the way to the end. Movements presented before are
skipped. There is no presentation of the complete routine as on the tape for part 1.
Quality is good. You may order the tape with Master Xu Guoming (George Xu), 4309 Lincoln Way,
San Francisco, CA 94122, USA.
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58

zh

VHS

1994

Push Hand and Power Training, or rather "Tuishou Jiqiao Ji Gongli
Xunlian" (Push Hand Skill and Efficiency Training - or: Drills), is one of the tapes
in Master Ma Hong's Training Series for Chen style taijiquan. It is for
advance practicioners who want to go into push hand competitions or anyone who
wishes to further build their strength and skill. Ha Hong goes
into considerable detail concerning push hand exercises with over 20 different
exercises presented and discussed (69 min.). The rest of the tape is devoted to
power training and presents diverse methods, including exercises with utensils
such as short staff, long staff, ball, and drums (34 min.). Quality is good. It is
possible to order the tape with Master Xu Guoming (George Xu), 4309 Lincoln Way, San Francisco,
CA 94122, USA.
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103

zh

VHS

1994

Another tape in Master Ma Hong's Training Series for Chen style taijiquan
introduces you to the martial applications of xin jia yi lu. It begins with a front
view outdoor presentation of the complete routine (14 min.; picture quality modest).
Thereafter, martial applications are being explained indoors (73 min.; good quality)
with two assistants who need to bear the tumbling and the joint locking. Colors and
lighting are very well selected so the images do not blur: Ma Hong wears white, his
assistants red and blue, and the background is dark (as on a theater stage). Twenty-
four movements of the routine's first part are covered, a few of them in succession
(i.e. 2-3 movements following each other). The tape is called Chen Style Tai
Ji Usage Form 1 Part 1, or rather "Danshi Dongzuo Ji Shizhan Yongfa" (Single
Pattern Movements and Actual Combat Usage). You may order the tape with Master Xu
Guoming, 4309 Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA 94122, USA.
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92

zh

VHS

1994

The second part of Chen Style Tai Ji Usage Form 1 Part 2, i.e. "Danshi
Dongzuo Ji Shizhan Yongfa" (Single Pattern Movements and Actual Combat Usage), follows
exactly the same pattern as the first tape. However, it does not provide a
demonstration of the complete routine as the first part does.
It begins with Gao tan ma's application (which is where the first tape cuts off), and
takes you through another 27 movements of the routine. The applications which were
already presented in the first tape (for such movements which are repeated throughout
the routine), of course, are skipped to avoid duplication. In this second part, most of the
applications are presented based on a succesion of 2-3 movements. Quality is identical
with the first tape, and it can be ordered with Master Xu Guoming (George Xu), 4309 Lincoln Way,
San Francisco, CA 94122, USA.
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69

zh

VHS

1994, 1990

If you wish to compare different Chinese martial art (wushu, kungfu) styles with
one another and do not have any previous knowledge, you may wish to turn to a video
tape called Chinese Gongfu (Martial Art) which contains an excerpt
of a performance by Chen Xiaowang. Unfortunately, it is the only performance which
has been cut short on a selection which contains a total of 35 performances from
the late 1980s with top competitors at Chinese national level. Chen Xiaowang's
presentation is cut off just in the middle of the first fajing movement of xinjia
yilu and lasts 2 min. and 10 sec. Most other performances are actually shorter but
also can be completed in this short time span. The tape displays mizuquan, changquan,
fanziquan, nanquan, ditangquan, xingyiquan, tongbeiquan, piquaquan, zhaquan; mantis,
eagle claw, monkey, drunkard, eight trigrams boxing; and diverse weapon routines.
Also, and unusual in the West, you will find female competitors performing at par
with male competitors, including in weapon routines as long-handled sabre, double
hooks, three-sectional staff, Emei sting, etc. Quality is good. I believe it may
be obtained from the same source as Chen Xiaosing's tape
below.
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48

en

VHS

1991

Master Xu Guoming (George Xu) provides an introduction to Chin-Na
(grabbing and joint locking) techniques - which are very prominent in Chen
style taijiquan - on Vol. XVIII of the China's Living Treasures
video series. The tape starts out with basic exercises (with long chop sticks;
5 min.) and an explanation of principles, continues by going thru different
movements of lao jia yi lu while demonstrating selected qin na applications
(32 min.). It closes with an elaboration and then short summary of main points
to remember (22 min.). Master Xu stresses the different applications of the
same movement, thereby displaying the incredible richness of the form. Quality
is good (sound recorded outdoors). The tape
may be obtained from One Hand Video, PO Box
185, Mamaroneck, NY 10543-0185, USA.
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61

en

VHS

1991/ 1992?

Master Zhang Xuexin, a senior student of Feng Zhiqiang, demonstrates
Chan Ssu Chin, i.e. silk reeling training exercises, on Vol. XV of the
China's Living Treasures video series. Exercises on this tape (a total of 45 min.) begin
with the head and end with the feet (although all originate from the waist, of course). The demonstration
closes with one short martial art applications of two exercises. Quality is
good. The tape may be obtained from One Hand Video,
PO Box 185, Mamaroneck, NY 10543-0185, USA.
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55

en

VHS

199?

Spirit of Chen Style Taiji Quan has been produced
by INBI of Russia. While the first section
of the film (11 min.) merely assembles sequences from other videos, as, e.g.
Tai Chi Chuan -
Vollendete Kampfkunst aus China, and
Taiji and Shaolin Quan -
The Fighting Arts of Henan Province,
the rest is devoted to presenting impressions from Chenjiagou taijiquan competitions.
It contains a number of barehand, sword, and ball competition routines by renowned
grandmasters as Chen Xiaowang (2 x barehand - 2 min. and 1.5 min. plus fajing
encores; as well as spear and guan dao) , Chen Zhenglei (barehand 2 min.),
Wang Xi'an (barehand 5.5 min.), and others which were mostly taken from the right
side. There is also an amusing sequence where Chen Xiaowang performs the sword
routine with an umbrella (1 min.), and various views of training sessions with
Chen Xiaowang (7 min.). Finally, the tape shows scenes from Chenjiagou tui shou
competitions (6 min.) where INBI members apparently landed a first place in
one of the groupings of the year concerned. The images are accompanied by Chinese
pop music which you may turn
down if it does not meet your disposition since there are no spoken words.
Total running time is 62 min. (including a 5 min. advertisement on the Dao Camp
1999 in Slovenia) and quality is medium. I am not sure about the colors: The images
looked black and white to me on Pal and NSTC, but Russia may use a different
standard.
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62

en

VHS

19??

There is a beautiful performance of the first form by the late
Gu Liuxin (ca. 7 min.), some nice push hand scenes between Gu Liuxin and
Tao Renxiang (ca. 2 min.), and demonstrations of sticky long staff training
by Gu Liuxin and Zhang Yu (ca. 1 min.) on Video Tape One
of Master Tong Yausun's Rare Historical Videos of the Great Masters of China
collection. There are nice performances of masters of the other 4 main schools
also. Tape quality is good; the material is
historical, and taken from black and white film without sound. You will not
mind the expectable defects in the quality of the images, though, as the
performances easily make up for that. The tape may be obtained from
Master Tong Yausun.
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64

(en)

VHS

19??

Video Tape Four of Master Tong Yausun's Rare
Historical Videos of the Great Masters of China collection displays a
Chen style sword play performance of Master He Bingquan in front and back views
(each 3 min.). There are also two excellent sword duets and another sword play
of other schools. Total running time is 14 min. Tape quality is good; the sword
duets' material is taken from black and white film, the sword plays were recorded on video;
there is no sound. You may order the tape with
Master Tong Yausun.
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14

(en)

VHS

19??

There is a Chinese video tape by Feng Zhiqiang on 24 Movements &
Push Hand Techniques with some sections summarily subtitled in English, and
with Chinese and English titles displayed for each section. His 24 movements form is first
presented with a group (front view), then by Feng Zhiqiang alone: once in front view, then movement
by movement (with extensive commentary), and then in back view. Some five attack and
defense applications are also included in this presentation (total length 55 min.). The second
part (a total of 48 min.) contains five push hand sections: a short introduction, 12 exercises for
single-hand pushing (including elbow and shoulder pressing, hip and knee strikes, etc.), 9
exercises for two-hand pushing, a few solo exercises, and 12 free sparring techniques.
Quality is good. You may obtain the tape with Master Tong Yausun.
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103

zh/ sub, en/ sub

VHS

19??

If you are ready for pao chui or cannon fist, i.e. the second barehand routine of the old
frame of Chen style, you may want to turn to a tape by Grandmaster Feng Zhiqiang called
Chen Style Taijiquan - Series II. The spoken commentary is in Chinese throughout
the tape, but there are some English subtitles for the general introduction, and each movement
is listed in Chinese and English. After a general introduction of 4 min., the list of movements are
displayed in both languages. The form is first presented in front view (9 min.), then movement
by movement (61 min., front and back views, extensive commentary). This is followed by a
demonstration of selected martial applications of 14 movements (18 min.). The tape ends with
a back view demonstration of the whole routine (motto: "follow me", 9 min.). The quality is good.
The tape may be purchased with Master Tong Yausun.
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109

zh, en sub

VHS

19??

If you are interested in an overview of a number of weapon routines of Chen
style taijiquan on one single tape, you may want to turn to demonstrations by Chen
Quanzhong called Chen Style Tai Chi Weapons Form. This
video contains presentations of the guan dao (Guan's long-handled saber, also frequently
translated as helbard; 14 min.), qiang (spear; 20 min.),
dan dao (sabre; 6 min.), and jian (sword; 13 min.) routines. Each section
commences with general explanations of the weapon and the particularities of the
routine along with some first views. Then the whole routine is presented movement by movement
from one angle and at normal speed. And finally the names of the movements of the
routine are listed. The tape closes with a few informations on Chen Quanzhong and the
American Chen Style Tai Chi Association
which is also where you can order the tape: P.O. Box 5026, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310-5026,
USA. Tape quality is moderate.
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It's generally not easy to come by recordings of performances of Wang Xi'an although he is one
of the four genuine standard bearers of Chen style taijiquan. The
Tokio Broadcasting System (TBS-V) has recorded some material
presented as Chen Shi Taijiquan Lao Jia Yi Lu that apparently contains
sessions which Wang Xi'an conducted in Japan. Included are several short interview sequences
with Wang Xi'an which are dubbed in Japanese. There is an excellent demonstration of the first
routine of the old frame in high stance front view (12 min.) which is followed by training
workshop sequences which include his explanations of specific movements to the training class,
and which are consecutively translated by an interpreter (to Japanese). Not all of the different
movements are covered, but a selected stock is (total 19 min.). The recordings close with a
sequence on gathering qi in Chen style taijiquan (1 min.), fajing (2 min.), tui shou (2 min.),
as well as what apparently are preview shots from a further recording. The resolution is not very
high. The producer apparently is some type of workshop (fuku shou dou). I came across this recording
in Jiaozuo (Henan) in 2002.
[top]

A Chinese classic, Wudang, directed by Sun Sha
and starring Lin Quan and Zhao Changjun, describes a common martial art theme:
Evil hands hideously murder a renowned and honest martial artist, including some
family members and friends. The daughter seeks to avenge his death, and climbs
the Wudang mountains to improve her skills with the daoist priests. Following
hard study, she descends the mountains and is rewarded by being able to subdue
the responsible traitors. Besides this, ousting of the collaborators spurs revolt
against Japanese occupation. The movie has been shot on real locations at Wudang
(which at the time of production were more dilapidated than nowadays), and film
tricks are not excessively used. On the whole, a martial arts movie which compares
favorably with other productions of the early 1980s. I have watched the movie on
German TV before, where it was called Die Tochter des Meisters
(The Master's Daughter). Hence, I believe it should be available in other
languages too.
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##

zh

VCD

199?

There is a movie called Taiji Zhang Sanfeng in
China which I have seen called Tai Chi elsewhere. It is starring,
among others, Li Lianjie (Jet Lee) and Yang Ziqiong (Michelle Yeoh) and tells the
story of two monks expelled from the Shaolin monastery. One of them recklessly
pursues a career with the military. The other discovers daoist's principles for
application in martial arts after turning crazy and being treated by a daoist
priest. Subsequently he is called master Zhang Sanfeng and subdues the reckless
former gongfu brother with his superior skills. There is a lot of bloodshed and
quite a few film tricks. Thus, the strongest merit the movie may have is to
establish for the average movie goer that taijiquan actually is a martial art.
Practicioners of taijiquan also may find comfort in the fact that even a skilled
martial arts actor as Li Lianjie obviously was not able to learn to adequately
imitate taijiquan during the time it took to shoot the movie. The "taijiquan"
displayed is quite a far shot from real taijiquan. The only real taijiquan you
actually get to see is a group of daoists monks praticing Wudang Sanfeng
taijiquan in the background while the credits are being displayed at the end of
the movie. The plot also bears no relationship to the existing
Zhang Sanfeng legend either.
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